Tag Archives: Mamie Gumer

When I saw that Meryl Streep was going to be starring in the film Rick and the Flash, my initial reaction was not a good one. I wondered why on Earth this Oscar award winning actress would take on a role that didn’t seem to measure up to her level of stardom. The saying goes you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. The same concept applies to this film, too. I was dead wrong about Streep’s performance and the plot.

Ricki and the Flash tells the story of a washed up musician who attempts to rekindle the relationships with her three children. Rick, played by Streep, left her kiddos behind after she divorced their father, played by Kevin Klein, and sets off to chase her dreams in Los Angeles.

Rick Springfield is Streep’s on screen love interest and side kick in her band. I was a big fan of Springfield’s growing up and was happy to see this multi-talented 65-year-old Aussie carried his own in the film. As did Streep’s real life daughter, Mamie Gummer, who plays along side her Mom in the film. The acting gene is clearly strong in the family.

Together Streep and Springfield nailed the live band scenes with their vocal talents coupled with Springfield’s guitar skills. As a kid who grew up in the 80s, the music of that era resonated with me from the very first scene. Audra McDonald plays stepmother to Streep’s children and carries her role remarkably well.

Springfield answered questions after a screening this week hosted by The Moms Denise Albert. He talked about his early stardom and his decision to step out of the spotlight and take an active role in raising his children. Springfield said leaving at the top of his career was a tough call. But getting back into the scene was very difficult as anyone can tell you when trying to resuscitate a career.

Rick Springfield talks to Denise Albert

The only bad thing I have to say about the film is this. Streep has the WORST hair extensions I’ve ever scene on the big screen. Ricki’s braids are atrocious. Same goes for her heavy blue eye shadow and eyeliner that never seems to quite get removed at night. Clearly someone needs to introduce her to Almay’s make-up remover pads. It’s rocker chic. But hard to look at when I keep seeing Streep as Margaret Thatcher in The Iron Lady or in the Anna Wintour inspired role as Miranda Priestly she nailed in the Devil Wears Prada. Both of those characters went to bed at night with squeaky clean skin I’m sure!

I was a guest of The Moms and my opinions are my own. I liked the film and think you should go see it if you want to be entertained. It’s playing in theaters now.